insinuation
/ɪnˌsɪnjuˈeɪʃən/
Etymology
Borrowed from Middle French insinuation, from Old French, from Latin insinuatio, from īnsinuō (“to push in, creep in, steal in”), from in (“in”) + sinus (“a winding, bend, bay, fold, bosom”).
insinuation means the act or process of insinuating; a creeping, winding, or flowing in. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 80 out of 100.
insinuation is pronounced /ɪnˌsɪnjuˈeɪʃən/.
Why “insinuation” is a great word
INSINUATION — [Noun] A subtle or artful suggestion or implication, often of a derogatory or critical nature. From the Latin insinuatio, from insinuare ("to push in, creep in"), from in ("in") + sinus ("a curve, fold, bosom"). Unlike an "accusation," which is a direct and explicit charge, or "innuendo," a specific and often risqué hint, insinuation is the art of the negative planted as seed rather than brandished as blade. It is the raised eyebrow following a compliment, the strategic pause that allows a darker conclusion to form, or the casual question that leaves its venom just beneath the skin—a quiet corrosion of trust, more felt than heard.
noun
- The act or process of insinuating; a creeping, winding, or flowing in.
- The act of gaining favor, affection, or influence, by gentle or artful means; — formerly used in a good sense, as of friendly influence or interposition.
- The art or power of gaining good will by a prepossessing manner.
- That which is insinuated; a hint; a suggestion, innuendo or intimation by distant allusion“Slander may be conveyed by insinuations.”